How to Submit News Tips to Our Editorial Team
Some of the most important stories begin with tips from people like you. We are constantly seeking information about companies, products, government agencies, and any developments that affect the way we live. Evidence is critical: firsthand accounts, internal documents, or revealing data are far more valuable than mere hunches. If you have encountered something that the public should know about, we want to hear from you. This guide explains the safest and most effective ways to get your tip to us while protecting your identity.
Why Tips Matter in Investigative Journalism
Investigative journalism relies on sources who are willing to share information that might otherwise remain hidden. Whether it is a corporate whistleblowing case, government misconduct, or a technological oversight, tips provide the raw material for stories that hold power accountable. Over the years, many landmark investigations have started with a single piece of evidence sent by an insider. The process of verifying and contextualizing that information is rigorous, but it all begins with you taking the first step. By understanding the best communication channels, you can ensure your tip reaches the right people without unnecessary risk.
Email: The Simplest Method
Email remains the easiest and most accessible way to contact us. For general tips, you can send a message to our dedicated tips address. However, if you are at risk of reprisals—for example, if you work for a company that monitors communications—do not use your work email, Wi-Fi, or device. Use a personal, encrypted email account and avoid any connections that could be traced back to your employer. For maximum security, consider using a temporary email address created through a secure provider. While standard email is not fully encrypted, it is still a low-barrier option for less sensitive information.
Signal: Encrypted and Anonymous Messaging
For higher security, we recommend using Signal, an open-source app that provides end-to-end encryption for text messages and voice calls. Signal stores only your phone number and the last time you accessed the app, but it does not retain who you communicate with. To further protect your identity, never use your work phone when sending tips via Signal. Install Signal on a personal device, or even on a secondary phone used exclusively for secure communication. When starting a conversation, you may need to add the recipient as a contact; this contact can be deleted after the conversation begins. The Freedom of the Press Foundation offers additional guidelines for locking down Signal’s security settings, such as enabling disappearing messages and disabling screenshots.
Security Precautions for Whistleblowers
If you are considering leaking sensitive documents or information, assess the risks thoroughly. Governments and corporations have sophisticated surveillance capabilities. Using a combination of tools—such as a VPN, Tor Browser, and encrypted communication apps—can help obscure your digital trail. Avoid any behavior that might alert your employer, such as suddenly accessing unusual websites or printing documents. Always use a device that cannot be linked to you. In some cases, mailing physical documents anonymously remains a viable option, though it requires careful handling to avoid forensic traces. We adhere to best practices recommended by organizations like the Freedom of the Press Foundation: this page is served over HTTPS without third-party analytics or ad trackers, ensuring that your visit stays private.
What to Include in Your Tip
When sending a tip, clarity and evidence are paramount. Describe what you have seen or learned with as much detail as possible without risking your safety. Include supporting materials such as documents, screenshots, or recordings, but be mindful of file sizes and encryption. If you have multiple files, consider compressing them into a password-protected archive, and share the password through a separate channel. We need to be able to verify your claims, so provide context on how you obtained the information and why it is credible. Anonymity is possible, but if you are willing to share your identity, we can offer more protection and follow up with questions. All communications are treated with the strictest confidentiality.
Understanding Encryption and Digital Footprints
Encryption converts your message into a code that only the intended recipient can read. Signal and other encrypted messaging apps are essential for protecting the content of your communication. However, metadata—such as who contacted whom and when—can still be visible to your phone carrier or internet service provider. To minimize metadata risks, use apps that minimize data retention, and avoid connecting to known Wi-Fi networks that can be monitored. Consider using a burner phone or a virtual number for Signal registration. Remember that even encrypted messages can be accessed if your device is compromised; keep your operating system and apps updated, and use strong passwords or biometric locks.
Alternative Methods for Ultra-Sensitive Tips
In rare cases where maximum security is required, physical mail or in-person meetings arranged through trusted intermediaries may be appropriate. However, these methods require careful planning and are not recommended for everyday tips. If you have a highly sensitive document, consider using a secure drop service like SecureDrop, if available, which encrypts files and routes them through Tor. Before using any method, research the specific risks in your country or industry. We are committed to protecting sources, but the ultimate responsibility for your safety rests with you.
How We Handle Your Tip
Once we receive a tip, our editorial team reviews it for relevance and credibility. We may contact you for additional information, but only if you have provided a way to reach you securely. We do not share your identity or the content of your tip with anyone outside the newsroom without your explicit consent. Every tip is treated as a potential story, and we prioritize those that serve the public interest. Even if your information does not immediately lead to an article, it may be stored securely for future reference or used to corroborate other sources. Our commitment is to ethical journalism that respects source confidentiality above all else.
Final Practical Advice
Before sending a tip, double-check the method and address. Ensure you have removed any metadata from files (such as author names or location data in photos). Use a trusted internet connection, preferably one not associated with your work or home. If using Signal, enable disappearing messages and verify the recipient’s safety number through an out-of-band channel if possible. Remember that patience is key: we receive many tips, and we may not respond immediately. But every tip that meets our standards is carefully evaluated. By following these guidelines, you help us continue the tradition of investigative journalism that holds power accountable.
Source:The Verge News